FIREAXE

Fireaxe is a one-man musical project that has been created by Brian Voth. Independent in the truest sense of the word, A Dream Of Death was written performed and recorded on a Yamaha 8-track recorder in Brian's apartment. When all this is taken into account, the sheer guts, determination and vision of it all overshadow shortcomings, such as sound quality and production. Above all, this debut is a concept album that explores the slow domination of the mind and soul in today's society. Weighty stuff indeed, but Fireaxe have achieved a great deal of success because of the simple fact that Brian did not let his ego get in the way. Considering his position, one would have believed him to compensate his lack of a band with the use of unnecessary technical embellishments. But no, Brian chose to let his musical and lyrical ideas dictate this most unfortunate of tales instead. Musically, A Dream Of Death reminds me of old Manowar and Judas Priest (very Traditional Metal), crossed with the long emotional compositions Bathory explored circa Hammerheart. That very distorted guitar tone Bathory employed is also a trait found here on A Dream Of Death. But, that is where the similarities end because Brian opts for a more melodic vocal delivery, something akin to the early days of Mercyful Fate, when King's vocals were more raw than majestic. With that said, this is not for everyone (be prepared for a very harsh production), but for those interested, they may actually find a great deal of worth in Fireaxe. I for one, am looking forward to Brian's future work with great interest. Available for $7 US from 21426 Lake Forest Dr. Apt H, Lake Forest, CA, 92630 USA. --Simon Lukic